Judgment or Collection Account to pay off first?

[mer313131]

What is the name of your state? New York

A judgment was awarded against me in Ohio (used to live there) in 2005. I have not received any communication since the judgment was awarded to the collection agency.

I also have a collection account on my credit report from an Ohio gas bill.

I am trying to clean up my credit report in the most efficient way possible. Would it make sense to clear up the newer collection account before that gets any more severe, or take care of the judgment first, even though I have not heard from anyone regarding it since the judgment was awarded? Keep in mind that the judgment is for a large amount that I would not be able to pay in one sweep.

[Ladynred]

The judgment is doing more damage to your credit than the collection at this point. And since the judgment can stay on your reports for as long as that judgment is unpaid, then it could be there for a VERY long time if you don't do something about it. Since you're in NY, PAID judgments can only be reported for FIVE years as opposed to the usual 7 years.

[mer313131]

Ok, thanks.
The judgment is from Portfolio Recovery Services for an outstanding credit card debt. The credit card debt was for around 1600 but the judgment ended up being for 3221.

Should I try to negotiate with Portfolio Recovery to get the balance down if I can pay a lesser amount in full, or is it too late to do anything about adjusting the balance?

Also, should I pay Portfolio or the judging court directly?

[Texas Pooh]

The court can't accept any payments, so you have to deal with PR directly.

Be very careful to get any settlement agreement in writing. Also, when you approach them about settlement, they may believe you've suddenly got money, and/or have a compelling need to settle, so you need to think through your approach with them carefully.

Perhaps someone has an idea on a good strategy?